France rejects Irish appeal for World Cup replay

Nov 20, 2009 - 8:35 PM PARIS(AP) -- The French Football Federation has rejected an appeal from its Irish counterpart to ask FIFA to allow a replay of the contentious World Cup qualifier between the two countries.

The FFF said it "understands the disappointment and the bitterness of the Irish players" but that FIFA's decision not to allow a replay is final.

FIFA rejected Ireland's request for a replay Friday, but the Irish FA then appealed directly to the FFF to ask the governing body to change its mind.

Thierry Henry, whose hand ball set up the deciding goal that sent France to the World Cup on Wednesday, said a replay would be the fairest solution. But the FFF's unwavering stance seems to end any chance of a new match.